This is my new friend, “Turtle.” She’s homeless in Fort Lauderdale.
I first saw her sitting near the downtown Publix, and the moment our eyes met, I knew I needed to stop. I offered to buy her lunch. She didn’t feel comfortable leaving her belongings unattended to go inside, so I grabbed her a sandwich, some healthy snacks, water, and a Gatorade. When I returned, I asked if she would share her story with me.
We sat together at the bus stop for 45 minutes, and I mostly just listened. I think she appreciated having someone care enough to hear her.
She told me she doesn’t want to be homeless. She misses working, paying rent, and just “living a normal life.” She’s applied for jobs but keeps being told she’s “overqualified.” At one restaurant, after being told there were no openings, she even offered to sweep floors all day for minimum wage. When asked if she’d really do that, she simply said, “I would do anything at this point.”
Despite everything, Turtle’s spirit amazed me. She smiled, laughed, and even gave me a nickname: “Swagalicious.” She insisted on posing for a picture when I asked to share her story.
Before I left, I gave her $10, which felt so small compared to what she deserves. She looked me straight in the eyes and said:
“I’m not one of those people who will take your money and spend it on drugs or beer. I just want a motel room for a night… I just want a shower.”
There’s so much stigma around homelessness. People often assume it comes from laziness or choice. Maybe that’s true in some cases—but Turtle’s story reminded me that it’s not the whole truth. She’s smart. She’s funny. She’s kind. And she’s doing her best to rebuild.
The point is: every homeless person has a story. I hope you think of Turtle next time you pass someone on the street.
Credits goes to the respective owner ~
